4 roster battles to watch heading into the Eagles offseason program
· Yahoo Sports
During his end-of-season press conference, Philadelphia general manager Howie Roseman offered insight into the Eagles' roster-building process, what goes into it, and how the pendulum has now swung toward the defense in 2026 and beyond. Dallas Goedert is back, but Nakobe Dean (Raiders), Reed Blankenship (Texans), Jaelan Phillips (Panthers), Adoree' Jackson (free agency), and Jahan Dotson (Falcons) have all departed.
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Jordan Davis signed a three-year, $78 million contract extension, while the Eagles will continue working to sign Jalen Carter, Nolan Smith, Moro Ojomo, and others, to name just a few elite defenders. Even with a star-stacked roster, there will be key roster battles to watch. With the NFL draft fast approaching, here are four Eagles roster battles to watch heading into the offseason workout program, spotlighting key competitions that could shape Philadelphia's depth chart entering the 2026 season.
Backup RB
A key trade acquisition, the hard-running Bigsby participated in 16 contests (one start) with the Eagles, recording 356 rushing yards on 63 carries (5.7 avg.) and 2 touchdowns. On Thursday, the Eagles agreed to terms with former Texans and Chiefs running back Dameon Pierce on a one-year deal, adding a physical runner to Philadelphia's backfield depth. A fourth-round pick by the Texans in 2022 out of Florida, Pierce's most productive season came as a rookie when he rushed for 939 yards and four touchdowns in 13 games. The expectation was that Shipley would be the primary backup to Saquon Barkley, but that wasn't the case. Shipley saw action in 15 contests and added 105 scrimmage yards (49 rushing, 56 receiving). As a special teams performer, Shipley returned 29 kickoffs for 777 yards (26.8 avg.) and added 4 special team tackles.
Third linebacker spot
Zack Baun and Jihaad Campbell are the unquestioned starters. With Campbell out until training camp, this battle will heat up early this spring. Linebacker depth is one of the strengths for the Eagles, and they'll have Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Smael Mondon Jr. looking for breakout moments. Chance Campbell is on the roster, and the Eagles could add a player via free agency.
4th cornerback
Riq Woolen, Quinyon Mitchell, and Cooper DeJean form the best trio in the NFL. The battle will come for the fourth and 5th cornerback spot. Kelee Ringo, Ambry Thomas, Tariq Castro-Fields, Jakorian Bennett, and Mac McWilliams will battle for that spot.
Starting safety position
Second-year stud Andrew Mukuba is one certainty at this position. The Eagles and cornerback Michael Carter II agreed to a renegotiated contract that significantly lowers his $10 million salary cap hit. He could potentially be a player to watch at the safety position. Andre Sam had some momentum, but that momentum slowed after The Eagles signed safety J.T. Gray to a one-year deal, traded Sydney Brown to the Falcons, and re-signed Marcus Epps, continuing to reshape their secondary with experienced depth ahead of the 2026 season.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eagles roster battles to watch ahead of offseason workouts